“Dagashi Kashi” is a quirky, lighthearted anime that delivers a uniquely nostalgic trip into the vibrant world of Japanese snacks and childhood memories. Based on the manga by Kotoyama, this 2016 anime adaptation by Feel. (Season 1) and Tezuka Productions (Season 2) combines eccentric characters, food education, and absurd comedy in a small-town setting that feels both cozy and eccentric.
At the heart of the story is Kokonotsu Shikada, a teenager who dreams of becoming a manga artist but is constantly nudged by his father to take over their rural dagashi (cheap candy) shop. His uneventful summer takes a sharp turn with the arrival of Hotaru Shidare an over-the-top candy enthusiast and heiress to a famous sweets company who is determined to recruit Kokonotsu’s father into her brand, but only if Kokonotsu agrees to inherit the shop.
Basic Details:
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Title: Dagashi Kashi
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Type: Anime Series
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Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life, Food, Seinen
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Creator: Kotoyama (Manga)
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Studios: Season 1 – Feel. / Season 2 – Tezuka Productions
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Director: Season 1 – Shigehito Takayanagi / Season 2 – Satoshi Kuwabara
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Release Years: Season 1 (2016), Season 2 (2018)
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Episodes: Season 1 – 12 episodes / Season 2 – 12 episodes
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Language: Japanese (English subtitles and dub available)
Conclusion
Dagashi Kashi may not have high-stakes drama or action-packed sequences, but it shines in its own niche: celebrating the joy of childhood treats with eccentric flair. Hotaru Shidare’s manic energy is the engine of the series, elevating every snack explanation into a full-blown event filled with passion, trivia, and comedy.
The anime’s strength lies in its ability to combine food-based education with whimsical humor and laid-back summer vibes. Whether you’re a fan of quirky slice-of-life shows or curious about Japan’s unique snack culture, Dagashi Kashi is a flavorful, feel-good watch that delivers sweet laughs with every bite.
